What is Nerve Impingement?

Nerve impingement, also known as a pinched nerve, occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons. This pressure can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness.

It can occur in many areas of the body. For example, a herniated disc in the lower spine may put pressure on a nerve root. This may cause pain that radiates down the back of the leg, a condition known as sciatica. A pinched nerve in the wrist can lead to pain and numbness in the hand and fingers, known as carpal tunnel syndrome.